Terrifying grizzly bear encounter in B.C. sends man to hospital

A man is recovering in hospital after being seriously injured in a rare grizzly bear attack near West Creston, B.C., on Saturday afternoon.

According to a Facebook post by the BC Conservation Officer Service (COS), the couple had been e-biking along the Kootenay River around 4:30 p.m. when the man’s wife heard him scream.

She turned to see a grizzly bear charging at her.

She deployed bear spray, but then spotted a second grizzly actively attacking her husband.

She used the spray again, which caused both bears to flee the scene.

Emergency services responded quickly, and the man was transported by ambulance to hospital in Cranbrook, where he underwent surgery for his injuries.

Multiple Conservation Officers and RCMP members swept the area that evening.

While no bears were seen, three major trails in the area were immediately closed and warning signs were installed.

Traps were also set overnight, but no bears were captured.

Officers returned to the scene Sunday morning, locating the exact attack site and continuing the search of the surrounding terrain.

Again, no bears were spotted.

The trails remain closed for public safety as the investigation continues.

“The COS would like to thank our emergency responder partners for their assistance,” the agency said in a public statement.

Bear Safety Reminders

Alisa Khliestkova/Shutterstock

Heading into B.C.’s backcountry this summer? Here’s what officials recommend:

• Always carry bear spray, and keep it accessible
• Travel in groups and make noise on the trail
• Don’t leave food or scented items out
• Report bear encounters to the RAPP line: 1-877-952-7277

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